The Roses Movie Review: Benedict Cumberbatch & Olivia Colman Shine in Jay Roach’s Modern Spin on a Toxic Love Story

Key Takeaways

• The Roses movie review highlights how Jay Roach revives a 1989 classic (The War of the Roses) for modern audiences.
• Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman deliver award-worthy performances full of wit, venom, and vulnerability.
• Unlike the original, this remake shows years of deep love before descending into marital warfare.
• Themes of ambition, ego, and resentment feel relatable to today’s couples juggling careers and family.
• Stunning cinematography and sharp writing make it one of 2025’s smartest black comedies.

A Modern Take on a Classic

Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman lead The Roses, a wickedly funny yet poignant drama about love gone sour. Directed by Jay Roach, the film reimagines Warren Adler’s 1981 novel and Danny DeVito’s 1989 adaptation (The War of the Roses).

As explored in The Roses movie review, unlike the earlier version—where hostility erupts almost instantly—this remake allows audiences to savor Theo and Ivy Rose’s deep bond before it curdles. This shift makes their eventual collapse feel both tragic and painfully believable.

The Roses (2025) vs The War of the Roses (1989) – Comparison

Love, Hatred, and Everything Between

Theo (Cumberbatch), a proud architect, and Ivy (Colman), a passionate chef, begin as a picture-perfect couple. Their marriage thrives until fate intervenes: Theo’s architectural project collapses during a storm just as Ivy’s restaurant soars in acclaim.

As highlighted in The Roses movie review, what follows is not instant warfare but years of passive-aggressive jabs, simmering resentments, and sharp-edged banter. Their battles escalate into one of cinema’s most entertaining portraits of a love-hate relationship.

Performances: Award-Worthy Acting

Both leads shine with career-defining performances:

• Benedict Cumberbatch brings brittle pride, insecurity, and dry wit to Theo.
• Olivia Colman embodies Ivy’s warmth, resilience, and explosive temper with unmatched finesse.
• Their chemistry—equal parts venomous and tender—is the film’s beating heart.

Career Highlights Table

Visuals, Script, and Direction

• Script: Tony McNamara (The Favourite) delivers razor-sharp dialogue dripping with sarcasm.
• Direction: Jay Roach balances comedy with uncomfortable truths about relationships.
• Cinematography: Florian Hoffmeister captures sleek modern homes and luminous natural light.
• Standout Scene: The infamous dinner party sequence, where Theo and Ivy’s marital venom leaves their friends speechless.

Final Verdict

This The Roses movie review confirms that the film is more than just a remake—it’s a smart, stylish, and emotionally piercing black comedy. Cumberbatch and Colman make it unforgettable, and Roach ensures the story feels fresh while honoring its roots.

⭐ Rating: 4/5

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Conclusion

The The Roses movie review proves that some stories are timeless—especially when reimagined with the right mix of sharp writing, visionary direction, and powerhouse performances. Jay Roach’s modern take on this classic tale of love and war feels fresh, stylish, and emotionally resonant. With Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman at the helm, the film strikes the perfect balance between dark comedy and raw human truth.

For viewers seeking a smart, entertaining, and thought-provoking film, The Roses is a must-watch.

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Yes, it’s a modern reimagining of The War of the Roses (1989), originally based on Warren Adler’s 1981 novel.